5 Algarve days out for the whole family

If you consider the ideal family holiday destination there are not many places that will top the Algarve. Year-round sunshine, a host of accommodating resorts with All Inclusive hotels at every turn and miles of white sand beaches – it’s a no brainer for travelling with children.

Unlike destinations like the Canary Islands, Turkey and Cyprus, which can take as long as 5 hours to reach, Portugal’s southern coast is around a 2 and a half hour flight from most UK airports making it a much more accessible destination. Once you arrive in the Algarve, there is so much to do to keep everyone entertained.

If you’re stuck for a little inspiration for family activities when holidaying in this part of the world, we have a couple of suggestions. Don’t forget to check out our exclusive deal on an Algarve hotel favourite at the bottom of this article.

Zoomarine

If you’ve ever wanted to swim with dolphins, watch sea lions take over a pirate ship or learn about how sea turtles are reintegrated into the wild – then Zoomarine is the place for you. The Algarve’s popular marine theme park is a great day out for all the family and should be at the top of your to-do list.

This entertaining and educational park has it all. Live seal, sea lion and dolphin shows, a 4D cinema experience, a birds of prey sanctuary, a conservation centre to bring injured animals back to health, live demonstrations and as many water slides you can shake a stick at. There is even the Dolphins Emotions where guests can meet these incredible animals.

And if all that excitement is a bit too much, you can always relax at the Zoomarine Beach.

Dolphins Driven

If you want to get up close and personal with some of the seas most intelligent creatures then embark on a Dolphins Driven trip. Cruises run from Albufeira Marina coasting along to spot dolphins in their natural habitat. Marine biologists give guided tours of the area explaining everything you need to know about one of the world’s most beloved animals.

Search the caves, beaches and rock formations of the Carvoeiro area and if you’re lucky you could even take a dip in the water while dolphins frolic nearby. As family activities go, this is one you won’t be forgetting in a hurry.

One of the more striking parts of the Algarve is Ponta da Piedade on the region’s western coast. The striking rock faces, the network of natural tunnels, the hidden grottos and the quaint coves – it is easy to see why it is considered to be the Algarve’s finest natural feature.

Walk along the coastal paths which weave their way around the cliffs and take in the truly stunning views. If you want to see these rock formations in all their glory then book a boat tour from the nearby fishing town of Lagos. The 75-minute trips travel around Ponta de Piedade with some including extras such as snorkelling.

Aqualand

Everyone loves a water park. They are a surefire way to put a smile on everyone’s face and the Algarve has got a real corker. Situated in Alanctarilha, Aqualand offers everything from adrenaline-fuelled tube slides to lazy rivers to dedicated kids pools for the little ones to splash around in.

Dare you take on the Kamikaze, Portugal’s highest slide where you go from sky to ground in four seconds? Can you beat your friends to the bottom of the Crazy Race or are you ready for the exhilaration of the Rapids? Your children will love exploring at Kidzworld while everyone can relax floating around the Congo River.

Buses connect the park to the majority of Algarve resorts making access to Aqualand a breeze.

Beaches

You can have your excitement of theme parks and water parks but not many things are better than a day at the beach. The Algarve has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe so an afternoon of splashing in the sea, building sandcastles and sunbathing should be high on your agenda.

There are so many beautiful white sand stretches to choose. Naturally, one of the most popular beaches is Praia de Falesia, close to Albufeira, but the likes of Praia da Maninha and Praia do Barril are just some of the resorts that can provide a day of endless fun.

Why not make the Algarve your summer 2017 holiday destination? We have an excellent deal on package deals to this corner of Portugal. You can now save up to 20% when staying at the 4-star Eden Resort – follow the link here to secure a bargain break at this excellent hotel.